HB5536 Summary

• Removes language classifying motor vehicles of the first division used and registered as school buses from the second division classification in the Illinois Vehicle Code.

• Establishes new requirements for drivers of first division motor vehicles registered as school buses when transporting school children, including valid driver's license, fingerprint background check, drug test, and annual physical examination.

• Requires school bus drivers to complete annual Passenger Assistance, Safety and Sensitivity Training through the Community Transportation Association of America, with failure to complete resulting in permit cancellation.

• Specifies disqualifying factors for school bus drivers, including serious traffic offenses, reckless driving, DUI convictions within 3 years, certain criminal convictions, and mental health diagnoses within 5 years.

• Mandates that vehicles used to transport schoolchildren meet specific safety standards including proper licensing, insurance, seat belts, biannual mechanical inspections, and equipment such as seat belt cutters, first aid kits, and fire extinguishers.